Great expectations

What employees anticipate getting in their paychecks is often a good indicator of an industry’s economic health. Before the economy plummeted in 2008, 85% of survey-takers expected to receive some sort of pay increase. In 2010, when the public sector was hit hardest by the recession, those expecting raises dropped drastically—to 30%—and 14% expected pay cuts. This year, 58% remain positive that they will get a raise.

“City is financially fit with the responsibility to keep it that way. Pay will follow.” —Texas city (pop: 5,001-10,000) public works director making $89,000